New Pavia track boosts student athletics

ILOILO CITY — Student-athletes and sports enthusiasts at Pavia National High School now have a safer and more suitable training venue following the completion of a rubberized track oval by the Department of Public Works and Highways.

The facility supports the national government’s efforts to provide infrastructure that promotes sports, physical fitness, and youth development.

The DPWH Iloilo 4th District Engineering Office implemented the PHP 51.974 million project.

The project covered the construction of a 289-meter, six-lane rubberized track oval, along with drainage and slope protection structures.

In a report to DPWH Western Visayas Regional Director Denise Maria M. Ayag, District Engineer Mario G. Soriano said the facility would provide students and residents of nearby communities with a conducive venue for sports and fitness activities.

“This track oval features rubberized track surface for superior consistency and quality, providing superior protection against oxidation, raveling, and moisture penetration. This will ensure better running experience as well safety of our athletes,” Soriano said.

Soriano said the rubberized oval could also serve as a venue for local and regional sporting events.

“With this additional track field, Iloilo province is ready to be a venue for any local sports competition that would eventually promote not only sports development but also social and tourism development of the province,” Soriano added.

The facility is expected to expand training opportunities for student-athletes while giving the school a dedicated space for physical education programs and athletic activities.

Ayag said the drainage and slope protection structures were included to improve safety and allow water to flow away from the track.

“This drainage will ensure that water, especially during rainy season would not flow over the field that could damage the track. This will likewise ensure safety of everyone in the area especially when heavy rains occur,” Ayag explained.

The supporting structures are particularly important during Iloilo’s rainy months, when standing water could damage the rubberized surface and disrupt training activities.

The DPWH said the project forms part of its commitment to delivering safe, resilient, and accessible public infrastructure that responds to community needs and supports national development goals.

The new facility also provides Pavia National High School with a dedicated venue where young athletes can develop their skills and prepare for future competitions.